Rear Glass Strut Mount Help Please

[TickDontPick]

Hello Everyone. Earlier this week I was driving my explorer when the rear glass began to rattle. Thinking the window hadn't shut properly, when I got to my destination I released the latch to find the left hinge broken. Shortly after the struts raised breaking the other hinge as well. At this point the glass is only being held by the struts. I manage to get it latched until it got home.

I ended up struggling to get it off and the right side strut mount on the window got shifted out of alignment. I have not been able to loosen the bolt or move the mount. The bolt is mostly stripped at this point.

Here is the left side

And Here is the Right

Does anyone have any ideas as to what I can do? I have already purchased new hinges from ford, would it be safe to install the window without struts if I leave it latched? At least as a temporary solution. I need this fixed to get to work today!

 

[CAHUNTERMAN]

You're fine without the gas struts as long as the hinges are good. Can you carefully turn the shifted mount back into position with pliers? I wouldn't put too much pressure on it though or you might be looking at a new window.

 

[TickDontPick]

I tried using pliers to no avail, I even tried tapping it with a hammer while applying pressure with pliers. Soaked them in PB Blaster yesterday too and no luck. I think the strut mount will clear the body recess so I can mount the window, but at that point I would have to pull the window again to fix the problem later. And Ford wants around $15 for that bolt I stripped. I don't open the window much but its nice to have the option.

 

[CAHUNTERMAN]

Wow, that thing must be tight. Are you using the correct size torx bit? Is there any way to hold the other side with vice-grips and try turning there? It got to where it is without breaking the glass so I would think it could be turned back. Maybe a long screwdriver or bar to get more leverage. I would just be afraid of breaking the glass but I suppose if you really want it fixed you don't have anything to loose.

 

[jls1znv9999]

Your best option is go to a few pick and pull scrap yards. If i recall it's a $40 part. That includes it all.

 

[TickDontPick]

I have not tried and scrap yards yet but I heard someone mention that most sell the whole window assembly together. I am almost tempted to take it to the dealership tomorrow. This has been a nightmare and this is my DD so i need it fixed.

I was using a t-30 a believe- It actually warped the bit from the pressure I suppose. What confuses me is the fact that the direction it shifted would imply that bolt loosened, so I don't know what happened. I tried to get the other side off for kicks and it is the same way - apparently impossible.

I want to go the cheapest route to fix this but need is done with ASAP! I am running out of ideas!

 

[jls1znv9999]

I have not tried and scrap yards yet but I heard someone mention that most sell the whole window assembly together. I am almost tempted to take it to the dealership tomorrow. This has been a nightmare and this is my DD so i need it fixed.

I was using a t-30 a believe- It actually warped the bit from the pressure I suppose. What confuses me is the fact that the direction it shifted would imply that bolt loosened, so I don't know what happened. I tried to get the other side off for kicks and it is the same way - apparently impossible.

I want to go the cheapest route to fix this but need is done with ASAP! I am running out of ideas!

Don't go to the traditional junk yard, go to your nearest pick and pull scrap yard. You can even call them in advance and ask them for a quote of the price. You will be allowed in the yard (sometimes they charge a few bucks) bring all the tools you will need. Then just scout out the part you need. Bring some extra money, sometimes when i go i find little things that i need or would like to replace usually cosmetic.

The one thing i haven't found as of yet in the center console lid intact.

 

[Turdle]

You need only a tiny screwdriver for the c clips on the shock, and a 10mm deep socket for the hinge studs under the trim. Take the whole thing, shocks, hinges and glass home as one assembly, and worry no more.

 

[koda2000]

To turn the twisted strut mount back. spray some WD40 on it first. It sits on a plastic washer and the WD40 will prevent it from binding. Then use an adjustable wrench to grab it.

WD40 will also allow you to easily remove the struts from the ball they mount on.